It is rare indeed when a writer's original stories are regarded as
masterpieces on a par with the great folkloristic fairy tales that have
been handed down through the ages. But Howard Pyle's absorbing tales
have for generations enjoyed such overwhelming popularity with boys and
girls that they have earned this unique distinction. This collection
includes some of his most entertaining and imaginative works--24
delightful fairy tales, one for each hour of the day.
When the Wonder Clock strikes one, a story unfolds that reveals how a
youth raised by bears grew up to be the strongest man in the land. The
two o-clock adventure tells of the faithful servant's search for a cup
of the Water of Life. Other tales deal with giants and ogres, kings and
princesses, wicked stepmothers, three-eyed witches and three-headed
dragons, talking animals and talking trees. Among the remaining stories
are How Boots Befooled the King, Cousin Greylegs, the Great Red Fox, and
Grandfather Mole, and The Three Little Pigs and the Ogre.
A large measure of Howard Pyle's amazing success is his genius as an
illustrator. Accompanying this collection are some of his most
unforgettable illustrations, drawings which capture all of the magical
splendor of Wonderland and its inhabitants. Each story is preceded by a
delightful verse by Katharine Pyle that indicates the hour of the day
and sets the stage for the tale which is to follow. 148 illustrations.